As strange as it may sound, we all have billions of bacterial microorganisms existing within our digestive systems. As the Cleveland Clinic explains, these natural bacteria are beneficial to the body, fighting bad bacteria and thus fending off illness. Called "probiotics," they're essential to good health, and can be obtained and boosted through your diet.
Probiotics Basics
Because the human immune system is centered largely in the gut, if the level and type of bacteria in your stomach and intestines becomes disrupted -- such as from illness, stress or certain medications -- you can suffer from illnesses, infections or digestive distress. In response, many health professionals recommend increased consumption of foods that are natural carriers of probiotic bacteria.
Sources of Probiotics
Naturally fermented foods like yogurt, buttermilk, sour cream, kefir, miso, kimchi, kombucha and tempeh are known as probiotics foods. These foods are rich in natural probiotics and may help with bacterial upset in the digestive tract. Obtain probiotics in supplement form, including capsules, powder and liquid. These supplements generally need to be refrigerated, says the University of Maryland Medical Center, and appropriate dosages vary depending on the condition you are trying to treat.
Benefits
Probiotics foods or supplements may be helpful for stomach problems. According to Harvard Medical School, probiotics appear beneficial in the treatment of diarrhea, Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome. However, despite substantial anecdotal evidence regarding probiotic benefits, the Cleveland Clinic points out that scientific studies on probiotics and stomach issues show mixed results. Still, it seems clear that many people do notice improvement in digestive distress upon ingesting probiotics.
Considerations
While including more yogurt or other probiotics foods in your diet -- or taking probiotics supplements -- may help regulate the natural bacterial in your digestive tract, consult your doctor before attempting to self-treat any stomach problems. Probiotics are generally considered safe, but they are not right for everyone, and could cause adverse effects in some people. In addition, your physician may wish to evaluate your digestive problems to rule out other explanations for your symptoms. If you are interested in adding probiotics to your diet, ask your physician for advice regarding an appropriate dosage for you.
References
- Cleveland Clinic; Probiotics; May 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Lactobacillus Acidophilus; Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D.; June 2009
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide; Health Benefits of Taking Probiotics; September 2005
- Cleveland Clinic; Can Probiotics Solve Your Digestive Woes?; March 2010
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